Gov. Cuomo Says Campaigns Will Decide On Debates

Gov. Cuomo speaks with reporters Thursday at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.

Credit WAMC Photo by Dave Lucas

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has been invited to debate Democratic primary challenger Zephyr Teachout and GOP opponent Rob Astorino, but so far has not agreed to participate. The first-term incumbent was asked Thursday at the New York State Fair in Syracuse if he would accept the debate invitation.

"You know, I'll leave that to the campaigns to work out. And whatever they decide," Cuomo said, adding, "I'll leave that to the campaigns to talk through...if there should be debates, who would participate: that's a campaign tactic that I will leave to the campaigns."

Governor Cuomo maintains a strong lead in recent polls.

He was also asked about the lack of endorsements for his reelection from key unions like the AFL-CIO and PEF.

"Besides the teachers and CSEA, I have the overwhelming support of the union movement in this state," he said. "Teachers and CSEA, we have a legitimate difference of opinion. We did for the past four years, my guess is we will for the next four years. And there's an honesty in this. I'm not going to say what they want me to say to get their endorsement."